What Are the Requirements of Becoming a Foster Parent in Tennessee?

When a child in Tennessee is unable to live in his home or a parent cannot care for him, the Tennessee Department of Children's Services takes over. The department provides care for many of these children through foster care.


Foster care is a temporary service that allows an adult to provide care in a stable and secure environment for these children. There are several requirements you must meet to become a foster parent in the state of Tennessee.

  1. Personal Requirements

    • The prospective foster parent must be at least 21 years of age. He can be single or married and with or without children of his own. The foster parent must be in good health and a resident of the state of Tennessee. Personal references must be provided by the prospective parent.

    Household and Financial Requirements

    • A prospective foster parent must have room in her home for the child. The foster parent may rent or own the home. She may or may not be employed, but must be able to meet her own financial needs, according to the Tennessee State Government Department of Children's Services (DCS).

    Training

    • According to the Tennessee Foster Parent's Bill of Rights, training and support must be provided to the prospective foster parent to help care for the child. Prospective foster parents must complete a 30-hour training course and self assessment process called Parents as Tender Healers (PATH). PATH helps parents understand children. It also helps families learn how to successfully overcome obstacles using proven behavioral management skills. This training is provided by the Tennessee DCS.

    Home Study

    • According to the Tennessee Foster Parent's Bill of Rights, a foster parent can continue his own family values and routines, but a licensed child placing agency will conduct a home study. The agency will evaluate the home and prospective family. All information, including references, medical and financial records, will be verified at this time.

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